Chemical Trade Balance by Segment

Trade Balance

In aggregate, the U.S. chemical industry is a net exporter – a position it has maintained historically. The position can vary from year to year and depends on industry segment and bilateral comparisons. Due to access to abundant and affordable shale gas, U.S. chemical manufacturers face comparatively lower production costs. The increased competitiveness of the industry will lead to a growing trade surplus especially in those segments benefitting the most from the shale gas revolution in the United States.